Supporting Parent Use of Evidence-Based Practices for Infants and Toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

As reliable diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) becomes possible for children at younger and younger ages, the need increases for early intervention systems and providers to be well acquainted with effective implementation of evidence-based practices (EBPs). Implementing EBPs in natural settings, such as homes and communities, requires that knowledge and use of EBPs is accessible to parents and caregivers. This chapter describes a model, the ASD Toddler Initiative model, which through funding from Autism Speaks supports early intervention programs and providers in building and sustaining quality programs for coaching of parents on the selection, implementation, and monitoring of EBPs with their infants and toddlers. Grounded in implementation science, facilitators and challenges to implementing the ASD Toddler Initiative model are described at the system (i.e., state, agency) and personal (i.e., family, practitioner) levels. An integration of these implementation drivers with the model processes and professional development supports prepares early intervention systems and practitioners to meet the developing needs of families and their young children with ASD.